The BBC’s recent documentary ‘The Mother of All Cons’ has captivated audiences with its examination of the rise and fall of the children’s charity Believe in Magic and the troubling story surrounding its founder, Megan Bhari, and her mother, Jean O’Brien. The programme explores allegations that Megan may have been the victim of Fabricated or Induced Illness (FII), sometimes referred to as Munchausen by Proxy, raising profound questions about safeguarding, parental responsibility, and the protection of vulnerable children.
While much of the public discussion has focused on the charity, celebrity involvement, and allegations of deception, the documentary also highlights issues that sit at the heart of family law.
Fabricated or Induced Illness occurs when a parent or carer exaggerates, fabricates, or deliberately causes symptoms in a child, leading to unnecessary medical treatment, investigations, or interventions. It is recognised as a form of child abuse because it places a child’s physical and emotional wellbeing at significant risk.
According to the documentary, a safeguarding review published after Megan’s death concluded that, although there was no formal diagnosis, professionals considered it likely that FII had been a factor in her life. The review raised concerns about the long-term impact of her mother’s actions and the failure of various agencies to identify the risks sooner.
Megan was consuming huge amounts of Oramorph (liquid morphine) and when doctors no longer prescribed the opioids, Megan’s mother Jean turned to forging prescriptions. Megan’s medical records show 6.4 litres of Oramorph being prescribed each month – more than three times the recommended dose for an adult.
One of the most striking aspects of The Mother of All Cons is the difficulty experienced by professionals and others in challenging the narrative presented by a parent. The documentary illustrates how inconsistencies were first identified not by authorities but by parents of genuinely ill children who began comparing experiences and asking questions. Their concerns eventually prompted wider scrutiny.
Cases involving FII can be particularly complex because parents often appear devoted and attentive. In Megan’s case, it seemed she genuinely believed she was unwell and she did have diagnosed condition, albeit that condition was seemingly exaggerated by Jean.
Family courts regularly deal with safeguarding concerns where allegations of emotional, physical, or medical abuse arise.
Where there is evidence that a child may be suffering significant harm, local authorities can apply for protective orders, including care proceedings. The court’s primary consideration is always the child’s welfare.
In FII cases, the court may consider:
• Medical evidence from treating professionals and independent experts.
• The child’s educational and developmental history.
• Patterns of healthcare attendance.
• Evidence from social services and safeguarding agencies.
• The impact of the parent’s behaviour on the child’s wellbeing.
The court’s role is not to punish parents but to assess risk and determine what arrangements are necessary to protect the child.
The documentary serves as a reminder that effective safeguarding depends upon agencies sharing information, recognising patterns of behaviour, and being prepared to ask difficult questions when concerns arise.
It also demonstrates the importance of listening to a wide range of voices, including family members, healthcare professionals, teachers, and others involved in a child’s life. In many safeguarding reviews, opportunities to identify risk are only recognised in hindsight.
Beyond the legal issues, The Mother of All Cons raises important questions about vulnerability, trust, and accountability. It highlights the devastating consequences that can arise when concerns are missed or dismissed and the lasting impact that abuse can have on children and families.
If you have concerns about a child’s welfare or safeguarding issues seeking specialist legal advice at an early stage can help you understand your rights and the options available to protect those involved.
